Martino hails Messi as Barca hits form
Print Edition
Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino said Lionel Messi had answered his critics in the best way possible as the Argentine scored his first two goals from open play in 10 league games in the 4-1 win at Sevilla on Sunday.
Sevilla had gone ahead early on under the torrential rain at the Sanchez Pizjuan, but Messi led his side’s revival as he firstly crossed for Alexis Sanchez to bundle home the equalizer before finishing off a fine counter-attack with a stunning half-volley just before half-time.
The four-time World Player of the Year doubled his tally for the evening with another sweet finish from Andres Iniesta’s pass 11 minutes after the break and Cesc Fabregas rounded off the scoring three minutes from time.
Messi had been questioned for his poor goal-scoring form since returning from a hamstring injury at the start of the year, but Martino insisted it was only a matter of time before he returned to form in front of goal.
“I always say the same with respect to Leo. I never run the risk of going over the top with him.
“Those that do say something negative about him sometimes don’t realize what they are doing is affecting his pride and, when you do that to the best player in the world, this is what happens.”
Victory moved Barcelona back to the top of La Liga on goal difference over Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid with all three sides tied on 57 points.
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